Oratorical

Talk your way to college?

You can if you’re a winner in the American Legion National High School Oratorical contest.

The Oratorical contest was developed primarily to instill a better knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States in high school students. Other objectives include the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly, and the preparation for acceptance of the duties, responsibilities,rights and privileges of American citizenship.

Another purpose of the program is to assist students in paying the high cost of a college education. The Department of Pennsylvania American Legion awards the first place winner a $7,500 scholarship, plaque and expense paid trip to the Pennsylvania American Legion State convention to present his/her winning oration, plus the opportunity to represent Pennsylvania in the National and Regional Contests and receive an additional $1,500 scholarship from the National Organization. The second place winner receives a $5,000 scholarship and plaque and the third place winner receives a $4,000 scholarship and plaque.

The winner of the Pennsylvania Oratorical contest will move onto the National American Legion Oratorical program and will be eligible to win $18,000 for first place, $16,000 for second place and $14,000 for third place. First round participants in the National contest receive a $1500 scholarship. Second Round participants who do not advance to the final round will receive an additional $1500 scholarship.

The Contest

The contest will consist of two parts (A) An 8 – 10 minute, memorized oration will be given on some phase of the United States Constitution. (B) A 3 – 5 minute oration on one of the four “assigned topics” assigned by National Headquarters.

The contestant may not use any notes or prompts when giving their oration. A minimum of five (5) judges will judge all contests, grading independently. Local and county contest can be judged by a minimum of three (3) judges.

The tabulators will tabulate all scores of the judges and apply any penalties as directed by the Chairman of the contest. The Chairman will verify the result and announce the winners.

Commander’s Corner

My year as Commander has been rolling along quickly and smoothly, thanks to all of the Pennsylvania American Legion Family. We finished our annual Christmas Hospital Tour. I am very impressed with the staff, caregivers, nurses, volunteers, and administrators at each of the VA hospitals and homes throughout Pennsylvania. Their concern for the welfare of […]

Adjutant’s Notes

I hope this new year finds everyone warm and secure! There are some upcoming events we need to pass on to you. The National Commander Michael Helm will be visiting Pennsylvania on March 9th thru the 11th. This visit is appropriately referred to as the National Commander’s Tour. This tour is a great time to […]